If you ask me what my ideal vacation looks like, it almost always involves somewhere warm…somewhere tropical. A resort in Mexico, a cruise in the Caribbean, a yacht (or gulet) along the Mediterranean, an Airbnb in Hawaii. And since I’ve been lucky enough to take quite a few trips like that over the years, I’ve basically gotten my tropical vacation packing list down to a science.
The Ultimate Tropical Vacation Packing List: Travel Outfits, Beach Essentials & Resort Dinner Looks
This is the exact packing list I use whenever I’m heading somewhere warm, whether it’s a tropical vacation, a beach getaway, or just a sunny trip. It works just as well for things like a girls’ trip to Nashville or a family trip to Lake Havasu (above pic). If there’s sand, water, and warm weather involved, this list covers everything from travel outfits to beach essentials to easy resort dinner looks. If you’re planning a tropical vacation or beach getaway, this is the exact packing list I use.
Also, yes…the featured image is a little ridiculous. But if it puts you in the mood to book a tropical vacation immediately, I’d say it’s doing its job.
What I Pack for Excursion Days
When it comes to excursions, I try to keep things lightweight and practical. The last thing you want is a heavy bag while you’re getting on and off boats, exploring beach towns, or walking in the heat. These are the pieces I reach for because they’re comfortable, functional, and still feel cute.
1. Lightweight Sunglasses (bonus if they float!): The sun can be intense on excursions, especially on boats or near the water, so sunglasses are a must. I like lightweight pairs that aren’t too expensive in case they get lost. I’ve lost a few to the water over the years, so a pair that floats is definitely a plus.
2. Hat: A hat makes such a difference when you’re out in the sun for hours. I don’t always wear it the whole time, but it’s great for extra shade and helps keep you from squinting all day.
3. Breathable Tank: A loose, breathable tank (linen or cotton is ideal) is perfect for warm excursion days. I usually wear it over a swimsuit so I’m ready if there’s an opportunity to jump in the water.
4. Water-Resistant Bag: A lightweight bag with plenty of pockets keeps everything organized and protected from splashes. I like one big enough for a towel and a water bottle, but still easy to carry around all day.
5. Supportive Bikini Top & Bottom: I almost always wear a swimsuit under my outfit so I don’t have to hunt down a place to change if we end up swimming. A more supportive top works much better than a tiny string style for active excursions where you’re walking, swimming, or riding on a boat, and helps avoid any unexpected nip slips. (And I always pack another set in my bag in case that one gets wet.)
6. Denim Shorts: Classic denim shorts are easy, comfortable, and work with everything. They’re perfect for walking around beach towns or exploring.
7. Lightweight Sneakers: For excursions, I almost always choose breathable sneakers (mesh styles are my favorite to keep feet cool). I’ve learned the hard way that while Birkenstocks are super comfortable, they’re not always supportive enough for longer walks or navigating rocky areas, so sneakers are usually the better choice.
8. Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a non-negotiable. It’s usually crazy expensive at resorts and cruise ports, and you’ll definitely want to reapply throughout the day, especially if swimming is involved.
9. Packable Towel: A thin, lightweight towel that dries quickly and is easy to pack is great for excursions where you might end up swimming or sweating. Our TME Shop carries the perfect Turkish towel from Olive & Loom. Founder Ferzan Jaeger (we met her in person in NY!) was born in Istanbul, and her towels are made from Turkish cotton with extra-long fibers, hand-loomed in Denizli, Turkey using traditional methods that create lightweight towels that get softer with every wash.
10. Flip Flops: I always throw a pair of flip flops in my bag. They’re easy to pack and come in handy when you’re getting in and out of the water or if you end up relaxing on a beach.
Pool & Beach Day Essentials
Pool and beach days are meant to be easy, so I keep a few key things within reach so I’m not constantly digging through my bag or running back to the room. These are the pieces I always bring for a full day by the water.
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1. Sun Hat: And just like with excursions, a hat is a must. I don’t wear it the entire time, but it makes a big difference when I’m reading or relaxing in the sun. A baseball hat works too, but I like the extra coverage on my face and neck from a wider brim like the one in the collage.
2. Black Cover-up: A pretty black cover-up is one of my favorite poolside pieces because it instantly makes you feel a little more put together. It makes heading to lunch, grabbing a drink, or walking through the resort so much easier than just staying in a swimsuit. I especially like flowy styles, long or short, because they’re so comfortable and feel soft against sun-kissed (or slightly sunburned) skin. And bonus, they can double as a dress at night (more on that later).
3. Waterproof Bags: I always pack a couple of small waterproof pouches for things like credit cards, room keys, and cash. They keep everything dry, especially dollar bills for tipping, and make it less obvious what’s in your beach bag. I usually bring about $100–$200 in singles since even a dollar or two per drink goes a long way at resorts and beach bars.
4. Waterproof Phone Case: One thing I started bringing on vacations that has been surprisingly useful is a waterproof phone case. It protects your phone from water, but honestly it’s been just as helpful for sand. There’s nothing worse than getting sand in your phone, and at the beach the wind will often kick up and blow it around even if you never actually drop your phone in the sand. (As a bonus, it also lets you take photos at the pool or even underwater.)
5. Bikini Top: I like tops that can be tied a few different ways to help avoid tan lines (I’m definitely that girl). That said, if you plan on swimming in the ocean, you’ll want something that fits securely because those waves can be intense. (Another lesson learned the hard way.)
6. Bottoms (that won’t fall off!): String bikinis are cute, but they tend to come off a lot easier when you’re jumping into waves or swimming in the ocean. I usually go for bottoms that fit a little more securely so I’m not constantly adjusting them. And if you plan on diving into the water, you definitely don’t want to risk them ending up around your ankles. Speaking from experience, that is not a fun moment.
7. Lightweight Sunglasses: I like pairs that aren’t crazy expensive in case they get lost (which definitely happens on beach trips). They’re an easy way to add a little glam to swimsuits and cover-ups, and lightweight frames are key so they’re comfortable all day and don’t leave those annoying lines on your cheeks or nose. (Goodr and Floatys are my go-tos.)
8. Classic Black One-piece: A classic black one-piece is always in my suitcase because it’s simple, flattering, and works anywhere, from the pool to lunch at the resort. I usually go for one with a great fit and a deep V or plunge neckline. (A couple of my favorites are in my recent J.Crew Swim Review.)
9. Tote Bag: For my beach or pool bag, I love a lightweight mesh tote. Sand falls right through, it dries quickly, and you can actually see what you’re looking for instead of digging through a giant bag. This one is roomy enough for all the essentials but folds down easily in a suitcase for travel.
10. Waterproof Sandals: Waterproof sandals are key for pool and beach days. Birkenstocks are my personal favorite because they’re comfortable and stay put (but Reef has great waterproof thong sandals if you’re not into the chunkiness of Birks). I wore regular flip flops once and spent half the time sliding around everywhere, which was definitely not ideal.
11. Insulated Water Bottle: One last tip that makes a huge difference is bringing an insulated water bottle. Of course, you can order drinks in the cups they come in, but most resorts and beach bars will pour your drink directly into your bottle if you ask. It keeps everything cold for hours instead of melting in the sun in five minutes. (And if you’re ordering margaritas like I usually am, you’ll appreciate them staying icy cold. Warm tequila is a hard pass for me.)
Easy Resort Dinner Outfits
When it comes to dinners on a tropical vacation, I usually do one of two things: pack a couple of statement dresses that feel a little White Lotus (in the best way), or use my black cover-ups as dresses and dress them up with bold gold jewelry. Both options pack easily, feel effortless, and work perfectly with simple flat sandals for warm resort nights.
1. Dramatic Earrings: When you’re wearing a simple black dress or cover-up, bold earrings can do most of the styling work. They instantly make the outfit feel more dressed up without adding anything complicated. It’s especially helpful when you’re short on time to get ready, you can throw your hair into a quick slick bun and still look completely put together.
2. Cuff Bracelet: A bold gold cuff is one of the easiest ways to make a simple dress feel styled. I love how it adds a little drama without having to think too hard about the rest of the jewelry, just slip it on and you’re done.
3. Necklaces: Layered gold necklaces are an easy way to add a little polish to a simple dress or cover-up. The one I included is more of a statement cuff-style necklace, but I’ve also bought inexpensive layering sets that work great for trips like this and don’t break the bank.
4. Black Backless Cover-Up: This one is definitely a splurge, but it’s so gorgeous it literally took my breath away when I saw it. I bought a black maxi cover-up back in 2018 and have worn it on so many vacations that the price per wear is basically nothing at this point. So while this one is expensive, if it lasted as long as mine did it might actually be worth it. (This version is by the same designer with a very similar vibe for about $150 less.)
5. Black Halter Cover-Up: I can never say no to a good plunge neckline, and this cover-up is perfection. Same easy dinner-ready vibe as the last one, just at a much friendlier price point.
6. Metallic Gown: The dress I’m wearing in the photo above is from Show Me Your Mumu, a brand I’ve loved for years. Nothing beats their vacation dresses, and this metallic one is just gorgeous. They also have so many other great styles to choose from.
7. Statement Dress: A dress in a striking print is perfect for vacation dinners, just let the dress be the statement. This one is from AFRM, and it’s the kind of piece that instantly feels special with almost no effort. Pair it with simple sandals and minimal accessories and you’re done.
8. Flat Sandals: For vacation dinners, I almost always stick with flat sandals. Either something with a cool pattern or a simple pair of flip flops in a pretty gold or skin-tone shade works perfectly and keeps the outfit feeling effortless. They’re much easier to walk in around resorts or beach towns, and they take up way less room in a suitcase than heels or chunky platforms.
9. Statement Clutch: I always bring one sparkly clutch in a neutral or gold tone that goes with everything. It almost acts like jewelry for the outfit and instantly makes even the simplest dress feel more finished.
10. Cashmere Wrap: I never travel without an oversized cashmere wrap. It’s perfect to throw over your shoulders if it rains or if restaurants are blasting the air conditioning. I’ll also lay it across my lap if I get chilly. It works like a blanket without covering up the dress. And the best part is you can wear it on the plane, so it doesn’t even take up room in your suitcase.
Airport Outfits: Cold to Warm (or Warm to Warm)
For travel days, I always start with a simple base outfit: leggings, a t-shirt, and an oversized wrap. From there, it’s easy to layer depending on your route. If you’re going from cold to warm, add a cozy hoodie and coat. If you’re flying warm to warm, a lightweight cardigan and sandals work perfectly.
1. Comfy t-shirt: My favorite t-shirt is Mother’s Goodie Goodie tee, although any soft, comfy tee will work. I just love that style because the fit is so good.
2. Leggings: Call me basic, but I’m almost always wearing leggings when I travel. Nothing beats that level of comfort, and they don’t drag on the ground with flat sneakers or sandals the way some sweats or lounge pants can. Jeans aren’t comfortable enough IMO, and bare legs are never happening on a plane that’s freezing (not to mention legs sticking to airplane seats, ew).
3. Cashmere Wrap: I’ve already mentioned this one before, but I’ve come to find this an absolute necessity when traveling. Whether worn as a scarf, across my legs as a blanket, or draped over my shoulders, I wear this all the time…finding new shades is always a fun way to switch it up.
4. Hoodie: A cozy hoodie is perfect for flights that start in colder weather. It’s easy to throw on over your base outfit for warmth and just as easy to take off once you land somewhere warmer. I also usually end up throwing it on over my pajamas when I’m grabbing morning coffee in the room.
5. Warm Coat: A warm topcoat layered over a hoodie is perfect for flights that start in colder weather. You can wear it normally for warmth or just drape it over your shoulders once you’re inside. I like pieces that feel versatile like this so they work for travel without taking up extra room in a suitcase.
6. Comfy Sneakers: Boots feel a little silly to me since I’ll never wear them once I get to the resort. I stick with comfy sneakers for walking through the airport and in case I get the urge to work out, which I always plan on doing and then never actually follow through on. If you do, I seriously applaud your commitment.
7. Long Cardigan: If I’m flying somewhere warm, I’ll swap the hoodie and coat for a lightweight long cardigan instead. It’s cozy on the plane, easy to take on and off, and works perfectly with the leggings-and-tee base outfit. It also doubles as a robe in the room or an extra layer over an outfit on cooler nights.
8. Denim Shorts: I’ll throw a pair of denim shorts into my carry-on to change into once I land. They’re one of those vacation essentials, perfect for excursions, throwing on over a swimsuit at the pool or beach, and easy to dress up or down depending on what the day brings.
9. Birkenstocks: Birks are my favorite travel-friendly shoe when I’m flying out of a warm place. They’re comfy, easy to slip on and off at the airport, and if the plane gets cold I can just throw on a pair of socks underneath. I’ve had this pair for years and they’ve molded perfectly to my feet. Truly the definition of comfort.
After enough beach trips, cruises, and tropical vacations, this packing list has become pretty dialed in. A few versatile pieces make packing easier and getting dressed on the trip itself basically effortless.
If there’s sand, water, and warm weather involved, you’re all set.
XOXO,
Scotti
